POT PROBLEMS

I am writing to correct some errors in articles concerning marijuana
cultivation in British Columbia.

Describing indoor marijuana cultivations, columnist Diane Francis stated
(The Taxman's Lost Cash Crop, Aug. 4) that Vancouver Police "smashed all
the hydroponic lights." This is not true. Hydroponic lights are pressurized
and explode on impact. The hydroponic lights are seized and, if charges are
laid, stored for evidentiary purposes. If no charges are laid, they are
destroyed under controlled conditions.

Ms. Francis also stated that "the Growbusters just go around shutting down
growing operations and never pursue full-scale prosecution or investigation
against the individuals involved" (Politicians Keep Blowing Smoke, Aug, 9).
This is untrue.

The Vancouver Police department ensures operators of the largest grows are
charged. But due to the magnitude of the problem and our limited resources,
we are unable to lay charges in all cases.

The department is not "lax regarding enforcement" of marijuana cultivation.
These operations have an extremely deleterious effect on our communities
and we have developed an effective program committed to the safety and
security of our citizens.

G.K. Greer,
Deputy Chief Constable,
Operations Division,
Vancouver Police.